The International Centre for Birds of Prey
The International Centre for Birds of Prey
The International Centre for Birds of Prey
5
This location was reported permanently closed
About
Home to over 230 birds of prey with 3 flying demonstrations a day, come and enjoy the Centre as visitors have been doing for more than 50 years. Explore the gardens and woodland, grab a bite to eat in the cafe and see everything from Pygmy Falcons to Steller's Sea Eagles! COVID Changes - please note that we have restrictions in place. All tickets must be purchased through our website and we have temporarily changed our flying demonstrations to 12pm and 3:30pm.
Duration: More than 3 hours
Meets animal welfare guidelines
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
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5.0
1,589 reviews
Excellent
1,441
Very good
119
Average
17
Poor
8
Terrible
4
Gemma
4 contributions
Aug 2020 • Family
Highly recommended day out for everyone. The centre has beautiful grounds to walk around (all wheelchair accessable), to see a variety of wild birds, plus there are flying shows throughout the day with highly trained birds that will delight the whole family. Shows are included in the ticket price, which is very reasonable, and you can choose to watch one or stay for all of them, as different birds are used. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, the birds are gorgeous, all in all a brilliant and informative day out!! There is an onsite café, inside and outside seating areas, toilets, disabled access and a pretty good gift shop. As the entrance price is so reasonable, I would encourage everyone to make an extra donation to the centre as it all goes towards feeding and caring for the birds, as they also rescue injured or mistreated birds so every little helps. The only downside is that it isn't and easy place to get to of you don't drive, Newent is a very pleasant small town and you can get a bus into the centre, but you would have to look up and pre-book a local taxi to take you the rest of the way (but it would still be worth doing that for an excellent day out).
Written April 9, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Lindsey-Anne S
Quedgeley, UK48 contributions
Aug 2020 • Family
We went here today, Adult with a 12 and 9 year old, absolutely fab day!!
COVID 19 Secure, you can see all the staff have gone all out in making the place feel very safe for visitors.
Best parts are the displays, catch both if you can especially the very cheeky burrowing owl, our personal favourite and such a character!!
You can eat in the cafe but would recommend taking a picnic as the views of Gloucestershire are so worth it, especially with the breathtaking grounds.
Watch out for George, the automatic lawn mower!! so much fun watching him zoom around doing his job!
Highly recommend this place, very informative for my boys and the staff very clearly love their birds and jobs.
COVID 19 Secure, you can see all the staff have gone all out in making the place feel very safe for visitors.
Best parts are the displays, catch both if you can especially the very cheeky burrowing owl, our personal favourite and such a character!!
You can eat in the cafe but would recommend taking a picnic as the views of Gloucestershire are so worth it, especially with the breathtaking grounds.
Watch out for George, the automatic lawn mower!! so much fun watching him zoom around doing his job!
Highly recommend this place, very informative for my boys and the staff very clearly love their birds and jobs.
Written August 26, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
720susieq
Gloucestershire, UK63 contributions
Sep 2021
What an absolutely wonderful few hours spent at the Birds of Prey Centre. There are many beautiful birds to see and to learn about and the flying displays managed by the super staff are simply great!!
There is a nice cafe on site serving a variety of drinks, ice creams and several delicious cakes; also light snacks.
Allow at least two and a half hours if you want to see more than one flying display (all in the same entrance price). Displays currently at 12noon, 2pm and 4pm.
There is a nice cafe on site serving a variety of drinks, ice creams and several delicious cakes; also light snacks.
Allow at least two and a half hours if you want to see more than one flying display (all in the same entrance price). Displays currently at 12noon, 2pm and 4pm.
Written September 17, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Midger2013
Gloucester, UK33 contributions
Aug 2021
Participating in the Owl Experience is limited to 4 persons and starts at 10am. Once introduced to the bird handlers and kitted out with glove and food its off to the beautiful gardens. Over the next two hours you with handle and fly a variety of owls and family and friends can view in the different settings.A truly amazing experience getting up close to such fantastic birds.Your ticket is for all day and ideal for a picnic and make a day of it. There 3 different flying displays, 12pm.2pm4pm. The highlight was to see 5 kites flying and taking food on the wing and the commentary is light hearted and informative.The lady owner participates with the flying demonstrations and is totally dedicated as are all the staff who are highly motivated and knowledgeable.Highly recommended day out and great value for money.
Written August 13, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Yariad
Bristol, UK61 contributions
Jul 2021
Amazing place and the people so very obviously have the utmost affection and respect for the birds, the flying displays were awesome and the birds were in beautiful condition, my fav I think was the Spectacled Owl, he was just so darn cute! 🦉
The Vultures were hilarious, they have such awesome personalities and were having a real game with their handler trying to sneak up on her and peck her ankles 😂🦅
The grounds are beautiful and everything is so well kept, stunning little spot in the heart of the country.
The people and handlers interact with the visitors very well indeed and the displays are informative and as you would expect working with animals, some comedic moments too.
There is a small cafe where you can either sit inside or out with lots of seating and toilets dotted around.
Had a fantastic day there and would thoroughly recommend visiting and supporting them!
There are several flying displays through the day with different birds each time so would recommend catching all of them
The Vultures were hilarious, they have such awesome personalities and were having a real game with their handler trying to sneak up on her and peck her ankles 😂🦅
The grounds are beautiful and everything is so well kept, stunning little spot in the heart of the country.
The people and handlers interact with the visitors very well indeed and the displays are informative and as you would expect working with animals, some comedic moments too.
There is a small cafe where you can either sit inside or out with lots of seating and toilets dotted around.
Had a fantastic day there and would thoroughly recommend visiting and supporting them!
There are several flying displays through the day with different birds each time so would recommend catching all of them
Written July 25, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
RIta and Alan
Hereford, UK8 contributions
May 2021
We went on a Hawk Walk yesterday with Connor and Domino, a Harris Hawk. It was a really fabulous experience (beautiful weather helped) and both Connor and Domino were superb and made it a most enjoyable, educational, entertaining and fun thing to do and we would thoroughly recommend this to anybody interested in seeing birds of prey in their natural habitat. To have a bird of prey flying to your glove is exhilarating.
Written May 31, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jadiebeks
Chesterfield, UK12 contributions
May 2021 • Family
We planned a visit expecting to have a nice couple of hours seeing the birds - we ended up being there over 4 hours and thoroughly enjoyed every minute!
There’s loads to see, the flying displays are amazing and we learned so much about these beautiful creatures. We can say now that we’ve been fully converted into loving the Vultures!
The lovely plants were an unexpected extra too - my mother in law who loves plants really enjoyed seeing all of the beautiful flowers and trees, much more than she enjoyed the Rococo gardens that we visited the day previously.
The resident dogs are lovely and well behaved, even after clocking that my 10 month old daughter was a good source of lunch (as she drops 80% of her meal) they still stayed a good distance back, even when she was trying to feed them! They only came closer when the food hit the floor.
And we were very impressed with the cafe! As my daughter and I have restricted diets due to her dairy and egg allergies, we often struggle to eat at cafes or have very limited options, but this cafe had lots of vegan options that were suitable for us, and my daughter was able to have her favourite cheese and ham toastie (with vegan cheese) which she’s never able to have outside of our home! Also beautiful cakes (including a yummy vegan chocolate cake), and reasonably priced too.
Thank you for a fab day out!
There’s loads to see, the flying displays are amazing and we learned so much about these beautiful creatures. We can say now that we’ve been fully converted into loving the Vultures!
The lovely plants were an unexpected extra too - my mother in law who loves plants really enjoyed seeing all of the beautiful flowers and trees, much more than she enjoyed the Rococo gardens that we visited the day previously.
The resident dogs are lovely and well behaved, even after clocking that my 10 month old daughter was a good source of lunch (as she drops 80% of her meal) they still stayed a good distance back, even when she was trying to feed them! They only came closer when the food hit the floor.
And we were very impressed with the cafe! As my daughter and I have restricted diets due to her dairy and egg allergies, we often struggle to eat at cafes or have very limited options, but this cafe had lots of vegan options that were suitable for us, and my daughter was able to have her favourite cheese and ham toastie (with vegan cheese) which she’s never able to have outside of our home! Also beautiful cakes (including a yummy vegan chocolate cake), and reasonably priced too.
Thank you for a fab day out!
Written June 12, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
The_M0use
Gloucester, UK12 contributions
Feb 2020
The owl evening at the International Centre for Birds of Prey was recommended to us by a friend and we were not disappointed by a fantastic evening with many memorable moments. My wife and I accompanied by our son and his wife, my daughter and granddaughter spent a fascinating evening learning about the world-wide range of owls and their habitats from the experts at the centre. After touring the aviaries to learn about individual species, we then had a tasty warming meal in the cafe before going outside to the flight field. Here we saw three different species flying from perch to perch each illuminated by spotlights. The ghostlike image of the owls coming out of the dark to land perfectly on its perch was an unforgettable experience. We then went inside to the covered flight area and watched three other owl species showing their individual characters and demonstrating the close relationship between the handlers and the bird. The evening well exceeded our expectations.
Written February 15, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Rebecca K
10 contributions
Aug 2021
Visited on a Sunday in a party of 5 with 2 children, 1 of my sons is very into nature and he was keen to go.
The first hurdle was getting in as the gate was confusing needing to scan the QR code on the ticket to activate the turnstiles. Sadly the sign directing you to the gate for those with a family ticket was small so didn't see this. This was fine in itself as you expect these type of things with an unfamiliar system. However the young woman on reception who came to advise and help was VERY rude. In fact i don't think I have been spoken to so rudely for sometime, and as a social worker I have a high tolerance for rudeness. If tickets hadn't already been paid I would've walked away at that point. This would've been a shame.
The place itself was well run, informative and great to see. The displays were great and we went to all 3, as they use different birds each time. The lady doing the displays who I believe may run the centre was particularly good doing the displays and added a sense of humour to them, which added to the fun. They were obviously passionate about the birds and their welfare with them and throughout the world. My 9 year old loved it all!
Sadly had another encounter with a rude member of staff in the cafe. Shame as the food and drinks were really nice. Also the playground was being renovated, so be aware if like us you haver kids keen to have a go on this.
Overall a great day out and would recommend it for any families looking for a good day out.
Would've given it a 5 stars if not for the attitude of the 2 staff members who were so rude.
The first hurdle was getting in as the gate was confusing needing to scan the QR code on the ticket to activate the turnstiles. Sadly the sign directing you to the gate for those with a family ticket was small so didn't see this. This was fine in itself as you expect these type of things with an unfamiliar system. However the young woman on reception who came to advise and help was VERY rude. In fact i don't think I have been spoken to so rudely for sometime, and as a social worker I have a high tolerance for rudeness. If tickets hadn't already been paid I would've walked away at that point. This would've been a shame.
The place itself was well run, informative and great to see. The displays were great and we went to all 3, as they use different birds each time. The lady doing the displays who I believe may run the centre was particularly good doing the displays and added a sense of humour to them, which added to the fun. They were obviously passionate about the birds and their welfare with them and throughout the world. My 9 year old loved it all!
Sadly had another encounter with a rude member of staff in the cafe. Shame as the food and drinks were really nice. Also the playground was being renovated, so be aware if like us you haver kids keen to have a go on this.
Overall a great day out and would recommend it for any families looking for a good day out.
Would've given it a 5 stars if not for the attitude of the 2 staff members who were so rude.
Written August 9, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Elizabeth W
Ross-on-Wye, UK54 contributions
Feb 2020
A fabulous evening viewing and seeing owls fly in the dark guided by highly knowledgable and enthusiastic staff.
Attended one of the Centre's Owl Evenings. After a welcoming drink, we were introduced to various owls on a tour led by one of the staff (45 min). Then, after a hot meal, we were entertained with two flying displays - one in the open and the other indoors (60 min). It was a delight to see the owls in action swooping amongst the visitors.
Throughout the owls seemed to be enjoying themselves along with the staff who are to be commended for their affection for the birds and their patience and attentiveness to the audience throughout. We'll return next year.
Attended one of the Centre's Owl Evenings. After a welcoming drink, we were introduced to various owls on a tour led by one of the staff (45 min). Then, after a hot meal, we were entertained with two flying displays - one in the open and the other indoors (60 min). It was a delight to see the owls in action swooping amongst the visitors.
Throughout the owls seemed to be enjoying themselves along with the staff who are to be commended for their affection for the birds and their patience and attentiveness to the audience throughout. We'll return next year.
Written February 8, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
My wife and I took loads of pics while we were on the course. Both of us handling the birds and of the other birds in the centre. A great day ...
Written August 28, 2017
No, the proximity to the birds is such that there is too much risk of stress to the birds from dogs they are not familiar with.
The staff are dog friendly, if you give them a call they can tell you what help they can offer for your dogs while you're in the centre.
From their website:
We are sorry but we do not allow visitors dogs on site. There are plenty of shaded areas in which to park your car and you are welcome to go out of the Centre as often as you wish to check them.
Written April 16, 2017
how many hours do you anticipate to be spent here? how long is each flying display demonstration? Thanks!
Written January 8, 2017
We were there around three hours. Some people came in walked round the aviaries once, saw a display and left after about an hour and a half, but you'd miss so much doing this. Each display is different, we saw three different demonstrators and the birds are always different from one demo to the next. They lasted about half an hour each and are spaced out during the day with a couple of hours between each. We had lunch in between and had a mooch around the little shop too. There are often workers cleaning out aviaries who answer any questions. They are so knowledgeable and care for the birds so well. They also fly some birds in the demo arena to exercise/ rehabilitate/train birds not taking part in the displays. Really hope this helps and you enjoy it.
Written January 8, 2017
Good morning,
We visited along with the WyeValley and FoD group on the 15th of this month.
Can we offer a belated thanks for a superb evening?
We run a small B&B and three holiday cottages, one cottage is wheelchair accessible and we were impressed with your facilities for the disabled.
Could you please provide a link , which we would use in our website?
Regards Edward & Marian
Written June 27, 2016
You need to contact the centre directly via its website. I am sure you can contact the directo via email
Written June 28, 2016
What happens if it's raining a bit? Do the flying displays go ahead outdoors or do they use the indoor display area?
Written October 26, 2015
If it rains they have flying displays inside a large barn-like building. They can't fly some of the birds but they do have displays. There isn't much shelter outside so take an umbrella so that you can still see the birds when the flying exhibits aren't happening. It's a great place. Don't be put off by the weather.
Written October 27, 2015
As previously advised by other reviewers, the bird flight times are detailed on their website.
Written October 21, 2015
All prices are on the web site
Written September 14, 2015
Adult
Gift Aid price £12.00 Non gift aid £10.90
Child 4 - 15 years
Gift Aid Price £8.00
Non Gift Aid £7.00
Child (under 4) Free FREE*
Concession*
Gift Aid Price £11.00
£10.00
Written September 15, 2015
Is it correct that 'all inclusive' guests can use a bar on the beach and which is it ??
Written September 13, 2015
Wrong attraction methinks!
Written September 15, 2015
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